“I will. We’ll have a big spanking scene the next time I see you. But for now, let’s get you in the bath, okay? A nice bath and then you’ll go home in time for church with your Baachan?”
She sniffles. “I’z don’t want to go home. Everyone hates me there.”
“Baby, no one hates you. Your family loves you. They worry about you, which is why they were so angry when you disappeared for three days, so we’re not going to do that to them again. You’re going home after your bath. If you want to come back tonight, I’d love to see you, but youaregoing home today.”
She clings to me tighter. “Kay-kay. You want me back tonight?”
“I do. If you can come in time for dinner, we could make dinner together tonight and then see that movie we were talking about before a good-girl spanking and bedtime.”
“I’z want that. Can I bring my laptop and come early?”
“Of course. I’d love to have you around this afternoon.”
“And you chase me?”
“Is that what you’d like? I chase you and catch you and give you a big spanking?”
I feel her smile against my neck. “Yes, all that.”
“That’s the plan, then. Let’s make it even more fun. I want you to bring something special with you to wear during the scene. Do you have a onesie or something?”
She’s silent for a long moment and I wonder if I’ve made a mistake.
“I’z do. Maybe you not like it?”
“What it is, baby?”
“Bumble,” she mutters.
“Yes.” I squeeze her. “You’re my bumble-baby. What is your special outfit?”
“Bumble,” she repeats.
I realize what she’s saying. “You have a bumble-bee onesie? That would be perfect.”
“Really? You’z like it?”
“I would. That would make tonight very special. What time d’you think you’ll be back?”
“Three?”
“Perfect. Now, let’s have that bath, huh?”
“Bumbles drown in baths.”
“Ah, but even bumbles like to splash about in puddles, I bet.” I’m completely making this up. I have no idea how bees clean themselves. I see some hasty research in my future. “I promise you, I won’t let my bumble drown. I’ll even sit in the bath with you to make sure you’re safe.”
“Kay-kay.”
I can hear the grin that’s growing in her voice. When I pick her up and carry her into the bathroom, her snuggling has a completely different tone.
I’ve made my bumble happy.
She’s still smiling when I help her pack her overnight bag, put her black sack back on, and walk her to the Metro. She swings our joined hands as we walk and hums a little song I can’t quite make out the words to. When we part at the Metro, she throws her arms around my neck and peppers my face with kisses before she runs off with a wave.
I’m smiling myself as I return to my apartment.
I take the time to tap out a text to Jack before I sit down to work.
